By Staff Reporter
Police in Lusaka have arrested a 35-year-old woman for severally assaulting and causing burns on her 9-year-old daughter who she accused of stealing money from the house.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga has explained that on April 18, 2024, Kanyama Police Station, under the Victim Support Unit (VSU), received a distressing report on Wednesday April 17, 2024, at 17:00 hours, concerning an assault on a female juvenile residing in Old Kanyama Compound of Lusaka.
Hamoonga stated that the victim bravely revealed to victim support officers that she had been subjected to severe burns by her biological mother at their residence on April 12, 2024, around 16:00 hours.
He stated that according to the victim’s account, she sustained multiple burns all over her back and buttocks as a result of the assault, inflicted using a cooking stick and brazier.
“The incident occurred following an accusation by the now-suspect, who accused the victim of stealing money from the house. In response to the accusation, the suspect physically assaulted the victim with a cooking stick before attempting to further harm her by placing her hands on the burning brazier. In the struggle that ensued, the victim fell onto the blazer, resulting in severe burns,” Hamoonga stated.
He stated that the gravity of the situation was exacerbated by the suspect’s attempt to deceive police by falsely claiming that the victim had sustained injuries from a fall.
However, upon further investigation and the victim’s courageous disclosure, the truth came to light, leading to the arrest of the suspect for the offense of assault on a child.
Hamoonga stated that in response to ensuring the victim’s safety and well-being, the child had been relocated to a safe home where she would receive the necessary support and care.
“Additionally, a medical report has been issued to document the extent of her injuries, and a comprehensive investigation is underway. The suspect has been detained in custody,” he stated.
Hamoonga has urged members of the community to remain vigilant and report any instances of child abuse or violence promptly.
He stated that the police would remain steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of all children in society.
